Penny C. Sharp, EdD; Mark B. Dignan, PhD, MPH; Karen Blinson, BS; Joseph C. Konen, MD, MSPH; Richard McQuellon, PhD; Robert Michielutte, PhD; Lynn Cummings, LHE; Louise Hinojosa, LHE; Vicki Ledford, LHE 
 

Objective: To describe procedures for working with lay health educators in a rural cancer prevention program. Methods: Process evaluation of traditional personnel methodology indicated problems during the early phases of the program. This necessitated modifications in procedures. Results: Adopting methods more in concert with Native American modes of communication were more beneficial. Conclusion: Experience suggests that lay health educators can be valuable team members in health-education programs. Sensitivity to cultural differences and a high degree of flexibility may be required in recruitment, training, and supervision.  

Am J Health Behav 1998;22(1):18-27